Kipling of the South Pacific

Kipling is an English Pale Ale by the Thornbridge Brewing Company of Bakewell, England. Kipling is marketed as a South Pacific Style Pale Ale, because it uses Nelson Sauvin hops from New Zealand. Thornbridge claims to be the first English Brewery to uses Nelson Sauvin. Nelson DIPA is an American use of the hop.

I had this at Pangaea Two Brews Cafe, its available in the bottle shop and to be corked and drank on site. It has an ABV of 5.2%

The beer pours a hazy golden yellow,with a big, frothy white head. The flavor is subdued with citrus and floral hops, and biscuit malt notes. The flavor has a nice pop of citrus hops up front, followed by a bready malt backbone and finished with grassy, earthy, citrus, lemon rind, hops. There is distinct, but subdued bitterness through out. The gooseberry notes that are special to the Nelson hops are also present through out. The mouthfeel is light bodied, nicely carbonated with a slight dry finish.

Overall, I liked this beer. It's not the standard hoppy pale ale made on the west coast and is a nice adventure into new British styles. I say new styles, because Kipling is also not your standard British Pale Ale. The Nelson hops add a complex tropical flavor, not usually found in British styles.  It's very drinkable, with great flavors, and easy finish. I suggest you Try It. If you're a big fan of unique, hoppy beers, then this is a must try.